How Does the Subaru Forester Compare to the Toyota RAV4?

The car shopping experience should be an exciting and stress-free endeavor. We here at Tucson Subaru understand that many Tucson and Oro Valley drivers can have a hard time sifting through information as they search for their ultimate new SUV. Thankfully we're here to help. We've hit the books so to speak and have compiled the highlighted features of two top-selling models (the Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4) with the hopes of helping you narrow down your search and ultimately picking out the model that most closely address your lifestyle needs and meets the demands of your preset budget. Please feel encouraged to discover the Subaru Forester in our new model inventory and to browse through our assortment of new vehicle promotions before contacting us to set up a test drive or ask any questions. Now that we've covered the intro, let's take a deep dive into the highlighted features of the Forester and the RAV4 to see how they stack up against one another.

Performance and Powertrains

The Forester touts a SUBARU BOXER engine capable of achieving up to 33 mpg on the highway. In terms of handling and all-weather confidence, the model sports an advanced standard Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system that helps to ensure better traction and efficiency on a variety of road conditions. The Toyota RAV4 features a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that can make up to 35 mpg on the highway so it sits slightly above the Forester in terms of efficiency. However, the model doesn't offer up a standard All-Wheel-Drive train like the Forester meaning you'll have considerably less confidence trekking over dirt roads and slick surfaces.

Interior Features

The Forester has been designed with a keen everyday driving eye as evidenced through its simple and easy-to-reach knobs and controls. The model features an optional eight-inch infotainment screen that also operates as a massive display for the SUV's rearview camera. This STARLINK Multimedia system also features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibilities. The model features a generous 76.1 cubic feet of cargo room that facilitates easy transportation of duffle bags, dogs and dog crates, and vacation gear. The RAV4 offers up its own take on a first-class cabin experience with 69.8 cubic feet of interior cargo volume, an optional eight-inch touchscreen system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The two SUVs are about even when it comes to interior layout but if you're the head of a family in the Sahuarita or Sierra Vista area and feel you might need a bit more room for groceries and after school sports equipment, the Forester and its cavernous interior are probably fit for you.

Safety Features

Both models showcase their own take on driver safety with advanced safety suites that are generously included as standard across the entire trim model lineup. While the Toyota Safety Sense suite is state-of-the-art in the same sense as the Subaru EyeSight, the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite is generally more well regarded and awarded.

• Subaru Eyesightt: EyeSight Adaptive Cruise Control, EyeSight Lane Keep Assist and Sway Warning, Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management
• Toyota Safety Sense: Road Sign Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection, Automatic High Beams

The Bottom Line

While the Toyota RAV4 offers many features that will surely bolster your time spent trekking through Marana and Green Valley, AZ, the SUV really can't stand up to the Forester's reputation for long-standing dependability and quality. Please contact us to take a test drive in the Subaru Forester at your earliest leisure.